Sheep shearing is necessary for welfare and fiber production but the process itself can cause significant welfare harm if done poorly.
Shearing performed roughly or with inadequate technique causes cuts, abrasions, and traumatic injury to restrained sheep. Speed-focused shearing increases injury risk from nicks and rough restraint. Shearing in cold wet weather leaves sheep vulnerable to hypothermia. Properly timed, careful shearing by trained shearers is itself a welfare benefit, relieving heat stress and removing parasites.